Metropolitan council mergers process boosts regional fears

Regional local governments say the Western Australian Government's handling of council mergers in Perth is increasing their fears they will be forced into mergers they do not want.

The City of Subiaco has written to WA's regional shires to warn some amalgamations of Perth councils can be pushed through without a poll of residents.

Subiaco warns the same thing could happen in the regions, which are expected to be the focus of local government changes once the metropolitan process is completed.

Numerous country shire representatives say they expect changes will be forced through with minimal consultation.

Nungarin Shire president Eileen O'Connell says she is very worried.

"What's happening in the metropolitan area, if they try and do that out in the country it'll be unacceptable both by councils and the communities," she said.

"I had hoped the metropolitan situation would have been resolved quite easily with discussion with the councils involved but the Government has come out with what would suit them and hasn't taken into account the community."

The Government says there is only the potential for amalgamations without a poll when two shires are merging and when more councils are involved, residents can force a vote.

Local Government Minister Tony Simpson says it is being handled that way to ensure a smooth transition, rather than removing democratic rights.